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Gospel of John - Alabaster Bible
The Bible Beautiful. Visual imagery & thoughtful design integrated within the Gospel of John. Recently funded on Kickstarter.Goodness and truth are two values often used to describe the character of God. In addition, Christian theologians have long described beauty as a third inseparable reality which together with goodness and truth, paint a full picture of who God is.Alabaster aims to give the reader a fresh visual experience and heightened level of contemplation while reading this ancient text, that ultimately points to the beauty of God.Features 15lb cover paper (matted) for covers of each Gospel 80lb text paper (unmatted) for insides of each Gospel 7.5" x 9.5", Perfect binding
104 pages, Paperback
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34 people want to read
About the author
Alabaster Co.
86 books78 followersAlabaster explores the intersection of creativity, beauty, and faith through original artistic content and stories of makers/doers.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
May 27, 2022
Such a beautiful read!! I loved all the images! The Gospel of John is already very beautiful so to combine it with stunning images that evoke further reflection, made it an amazing reading experience. I definitely want to buy more of their books!
April 16, 2024
This book is very pretty, and it contains the entire Gospel of John, my favorite gospel. It is full of beautiful, but simple photographs which makes it even more enjoyable to read God's word. I was so touched that my daughters thought to give me such a precious gift for Christmas this year.
June 29, 2021
Love John in general, and I loved most of the pictures, but some were a little too abstract for me up appreciate (like the multiple blank canvases towards the end).
September 15, 2020
I am completely in love with this book. The imagery is stunningly beautiful and compliments the writings so perfectly. I love having a new way to read the Bible. With the busyness of work and everyday life, this book has sparked a new and exciting routine for me that creates a space for me to sit down, unwind, and experience God's word a new way. I am thankful to have been gifted these books by Alabaster Co. and I would recommend to anyone.
June 29, 2020
IVP has long had a history of creating Bible Study materials suitable for both individual and group studies. Though designed for individual study and devotions this new series of Bible Studies still remain useful for individual and group study.
The editors have combined Scripture, art (i.e. photographs), and meditations, to guide the reader to study, dig, understand, and apply scripture. The book contains the complete text of the New Living Translation - separated with pages of art work and meditations. I do not get as excited with the included art - occasionally the included black and white picture add some meaning to the associated passage, but not often enough to be helpful to this reader.
The meditations are helpful. Based around the historic lectio divina methodology of "Read, Reflect, Respond, and Rest". The 10 meditations each focus the reader's attention on a small section of scripture - for example, the first one centers on “The Wedding at Cana”. This meditation includes 19 questions or spiritual directions divided between each of the four phases of the lectio divina methodology. The questions are very open-ended - not demanding canned answers - but seeking thoughtful, personal, prayerful answers. The questions, on the surface, do not appear to be deep, but are written in such a way that the reader can dive as deep into their meaning as he or she desires.
I will note that though the retail version of the book does not appear to be available as an e-book, the PDF review copy I received was at times difficult to read because the light-colored backgrounds tended to obscure the non-Biblical text printed in white. Biblical text is printed with black ink on a white background.
The book, as mentioned earlier, would serve the individual’s study of scripture or for a small group. I was so impressed with the PDF version of the Bible Study that I have purchased two copies, for my wife and I, to study together in the evenings. Rarely do I purchase additional copies of books I have reviewed - this one is an exception. Thank you, IVP.
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This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed are my own.
The editors have combined Scripture, art (i.e. photographs), and meditations, to guide the reader to study, dig, understand, and apply scripture. The book contains the complete text of the New Living Translation - separated with pages of art work and meditations. I do not get as excited with the included art - occasionally the included black and white picture add some meaning to the associated passage, but not often enough to be helpful to this reader.
The meditations are helpful. Based around the historic lectio divina methodology of "Read, Reflect, Respond, and Rest". The 10 meditations each focus the reader's attention on a small section of scripture - for example, the first one centers on “The Wedding at Cana”. This meditation includes 19 questions or spiritual directions divided between each of the four phases of the lectio divina methodology. The questions are very open-ended - not demanding canned answers - but seeking thoughtful, personal, prayerful answers. The questions, on the surface, do not appear to be deep, but are written in such a way that the reader can dive as deep into their meaning as he or she desires.
I will note that though the retail version of the book does not appear to be available as an e-book, the PDF review copy I received was at times difficult to read because the light-colored backgrounds tended to obscure the non-Biblical text printed in white. Biblical text is printed with black ink on a white background.
The book, as mentioned earlier, would serve the individual’s study of scripture or for a small group. I was so impressed with the PDF version of the Bible Study that I have purchased two copies, for my wife and I, to study together in the evenings. Rarely do I purchase additional copies of books I have reviewed - this one is an exception. Thank you, IVP.
______________
This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed are my own.
January 27, 2021
The Gospel of John is so rich and dense; it’s just a brilliant book unto itself. It’s interesting reading this gospel removed from the library that is the Bible. It makes the read through feel independent and I can approach it in a fresh way. I feel so much of the author in this Gospel, especially in the last chapters.
The Alabaster version is a cool experience as it supplements the text with a variety of images. The partnering of visual art with divine scripture (I know that statement lands different for different people) is a powerful way to make the reader truly feel more. From abstract to tactile to portraiture, the photos can be quite moving. There are a few that feel odd, the ones of peoples bodies and faces, but never bad or distasteful. I would definitely like to utilize these Alabaster publications to approach familiar scripture in a fresh way.
The Alabaster version is a cool experience as it supplements the text with a variety of images. The partnering of visual art with divine scripture (I know that statement lands different for different people) is a powerful way to make the reader truly feel more. From abstract to tactile to portraiture, the photos can be quite moving. There are a few that feel odd, the ones of peoples bodies and faces, but never bad or distasteful. I would definitely like to utilize these Alabaster publications to approach familiar scripture in a fresh way.
October 14, 2020
Straightforward reading of the Gospel of John inside an artistic format (it has photos of inanimate objects and of human hands to help in contemplation or meditation).
June 5, 2022
pretty good
April 15, 2023
My favorite of the four Gospels!
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September 17, 2020Did we thrive or merely survive throughout this year? Alabaster is here with some literal Good News. They are releasing a new edition of their Gospel of John - and it here to give you life.
Truly Epic
Alabaster has enhanced their iconic aesthetic. This second edition features a new distinct cover, color story, and includes a wider range of global artists. The blue mountain landscape gave this book an epic feel, and the art used throughout the book does not disappoint.
Described as a perfect paperback, this book is softcover, 120 pages, perfect bound, and printed in full color on uncoated paper in Canada. The dimensions are 7.5 in x 9.5 in. It uses the NLT translation, which is excellent for this type of reading experience.
An Abundant Life
The blue in the book is also accented by green, and reading the text alongside these colors infused the words with a vibrant and refreshing feel. The promises of eternal life ring true.
Reading this book at the end of the year reminds me that there is more to come. We have not yet reached the horizon, but it shining brighter and gets more beautiful as we get closer to Jesus. Christ came so that you may have life, and that you may have it abundantly.
My copy of the Gospel of John - Alabaster Bible 2nd Ed. was complimentary through Alabaster’s Influencer Program.
Truly Epic
Alabaster has enhanced their iconic aesthetic. This second edition features a new distinct cover, color story, and includes a wider range of global artists. The blue mountain landscape gave this book an epic feel, and the art used throughout the book does not disappoint.
Described as a perfect paperback, this book is softcover, 120 pages, perfect bound, and printed in full color on uncoated paper in Canada. The dimensions are 7.5 in x 9.5 in. It uses the NLT translation, which is excellent for this type of reading experience.
An Abundant Life
The blue in the book is also accented by green, and reading the text alongside these colors infused the words with a vibrant and refreshing feel. The promises of eternal life ring true.
Reading this book at the end of the year reminds me that there is more to come. We have not yet reached the horizon, but it shining brighter and gets more beautiful as we get closer to Jesus. Christ came so that you may have life, and that you may have it abundantly.
My copy of the Gospel of John - Alabaster Bible 2nd Ed. was complimentary through Alabaster’s Influencer Program.
September 17, 2020
Alabaster is able to make a statement with its lively, artistic, and bold images. Reading the Word is already a delightful experience and Alabaster makes it even more immersive. The easy to read text and titled paragraphs make reading the Word accessible to all.
As I read of the miracles performed by Jesus in the book of John, I am encouraged and strengthened in my faith and walk with God. Alabaster has done an amazing job in relating their images in context to the message of the stories in the Bible. The image is not a direct relation sometimes, but it is enough to incite imagination and reflection on the passage. Overall, Alabaster continues to amaze with its modern delivery of the Bible.
*My copy of the book was complimentary through Alabaster's Influencer Program, but the opinions are my own*
As I read of the miracles performed by Jesus in the book of John, I am encouraged and strengthened in my faith and walk with God. Alabaster has done an amazing job in relating their images in context to the message of the stories in the Bible. The image is not a direct relation sometimes, but it is enough to incite imagination and reflection on the passage. Overall, Alabaster continues to amaze with its modern delivery of the Bible.
*My copy of the book was complimentary through Alabaster's Influencer Program, but the opinions are my own*
September 18, 2020
Reading through Alabaster’s books is an entire experience - instead of skimming pages or diving into intense analytical Bible study, I’ve found myself so appreciative of the way I can escape into a place of serenity while spending time in the Word. The organization and formatting of the Gospel of John is not only helpful but aesthetically appealing. The woodsy images and simplistic photos are captivating! I feel like a child again reading a children’s book - excited by the images accompanying an incredible story.
I received a complimentary copy of the book through Alabaster’s Influencer Program but all thoughts and opinions are my own!
I received a complimentary copy of the book through Alabaster’s Influencer Program but all thoughts and opinions are my own!
September 19, 2020
The book of John is a great addition to my ever-growing collection by Alabaster Co. I just love how it showcases the direct link between the nature of God and the nature of the Word, Jesus Christ. The beautiful photography truly captures the emphasis on the deity of Christ in a striking quality. This book is not just inspirational but an instruction for life. Well done Alabaster Co!
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Alabaster’s influencer Program. Personally this book has allowed me to dive in deeper in God’s Word, enhancing my daily readings and devotional time. Thanks again for such a wonderful addition to my library of the beautiful Alabaster Co. Bible Collection!
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Alabaster’s influencer Program. Personally this book has allowed me to dive in deeper in God’s Word, enhancing my daily readings and devotional time. Thanks again for such a wonderful addition to my library of the beautiful Alabaster Co. Bible Collection!
September 16, 2020
I absolutely love the way this book is laid out. Alabaster has taken the Book of John and organized it into a much easier way to read. I wake up excited to dig deeper into God’s Word since it’s no longer intimidating. It is word for word straight from the Bible, no added content, which is very important to me. The beautiful photos are a nice touch! I love this refreshing Bible book and highly recommend any of the Alabaster books!
(I received a sample copy through Alabaster’s Influencer Program, but all opinions are my own.)
(I received a sample copy through Alabaster’s Influencer Program, but all opinions are my own.)
September 18, 2020
As part of the influencer program I’m blessed to get to preview these books before they are released. I am excited for the second edition of the Gospels to be released and look forward to receiving my copies. Of the new books John spoke to me the most, maybe it was the imagery of the artwork paired with the truth of God or that it’s a book I’ve always enjoyed reading. But either way I’m excited to add it to my bookshelf and not leave it there but to read it and reread it often. Share them with my family and friends. Another great release, thank you Alabaster.
September 18, 2020
I love the first edition of the book of John, so I was so expectant to see what the second edition would look like! It surpassed my expectations wildly! It is so stunning, and makes an amazing gift to family and friends. I cannot wait to get to see more of the new edition; I think it could be my favorite Alabaster book yet!
*My copy of the book of John was complimentary through Alabaster's Influencer Program*
*My copy of the book of John was complimentary through Alabaster's Influencer Program*
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews